OCHA Weekly Briefing Notes 7 – 13 December 2005 | 1 U N I T E D N A T I O N S N A T I O N S U N I E S

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Protection of Civilians - Weekly Briefing Notes 7 – 13 December 2005

Of note this week • IAF targeted air strikes and IDF artillery shelling in the . Stricter closure with many flying checkpoints, IDF search and arrest campaigns/operations, especially in the northern . Age restrictions re-imposed on leaving . Killing of one IDF soldier at Qalandiya checkpoint and subsequent closure.

1. Physical Protection

Casualties

60

40

20

0 Children Women Injuries Deaths Deaths Deaths Palestinians 52 7 0 0 Israelis 4100 Internationals 0000

• 7 December: Palestinians threw stones at an IDF vehicle in city. One IDF soldier was injured. • 7 December: One 15 year-old Palestinian boy was injured in () when IDF opened fire during a search campaign. • 7 December: One 18 year-old Palestinian male was injured in Nablus city (Nablus) when IDF opened fire during a search campaign. • 7 December: One 29 year-old Palestinian male was killed and five passers-by injured in an IAF air strike targeting a vehicle in (Gaza Strip). • 8 December: Two 33 year-old Palestinian males were killed and two Palestinians injured, including a six year-old girl, in an IAF air strike on an abandoned house in camp (Gaza Strip). • 8 December: A Palestinian male stabbed and killed an IDF soldier at Qalandiya checkpoint (Jerusalem) at around 4:00pm. The Palestinian was detained by the IDF and Qalandiya checkpoint was totally closed following the incident. • 9 December: Three Palestinians were injured during a demonstration organized by Palestinians, international and Israeli activist against the Barrier construction in Bil’in (). The Israeli Border police fired tear gas canisters towards the convoy of the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights who was in Bil’in for a briefing. • 9 December: Clashes erupted between a group of Palestinian youth and Israeli police in the Old city of Jerusalem. One Palestinian male and one Israeli policeman were injured. • 10 December: One 30 year-old Palestinian male died wounds received in an IAF attack on (Gaza Strip) on 8 December. • 10 December: One 37 year-old Palestinian male was killed at sea when an IDF naval vessel patrolling the Gaza coast west of Rafah opened fire. The Palestinian man was attempting to smuggle weaponry, according to the IDF. • 11 December: One 18 year-old Palestinian male was injured when an IDF naval vessel opened fire on a Palestinian fishing boat west of Khan Younis (Gaza Strip).

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• 11 December: The IDF fired tear gas and rubber coated metal bullets during a house search in Deir Abu Mash’al (Ramallah) at around 9:00pm. One Palestinian male was injured. • 11 December: One 20 year-old Palestinian male was killed in camp (Nablus) when IDF shot him in the hand while attempting to throw a hand grenade. • 11 December: Two Palestinians in “ Camp (Nablus), 15 and 17 years old, threw stones at an IDF vehicle. The IDF opened fire and injured them. • 13 December: One 22 year-old Palestinian male was shot dead by IDF in Nablus city (Nablus) during an IDF operation in the city centre. 34 other Palestinians were injured, including five medics, during confrontations between Palestinian stone throwers and the IDF. • 13 December: Two IDF soldiers were injured when Palestinians hurled an explosive device at their vehicle in Nablus city (Nablus). • 13 December: One 44 year-old Palestinian was died following an explosion near his farm in Abassan area, east of Khan Younis (Gaza Strip). The circumstances causing the explosion are not clear.1 • 13 December: IDF shot and injured one Palestinian male attempting to throw a Molotov cocktail at an IDF patrol near ‘Asira ash Shamaliyya (Nablus).

2. Shelter and Property:

Structures People Structures Date Location, Governorate partially displaced / demolished destroyed affected 8 Dec Barta’a ash Sharqiyya, 13 0 0 Jenin 12 Dec Jabal al Mukabbir and 2 1 12 At Tur, Jerusalem Total Week 15 1 12

Incidents: • 8 December: The IDF demolished three houses under construction and ten commercial shops and a greenhouse in Barta’a ash Sharqiya (Jenin) for lack of construction permits. • 12 December: The IDF demolished two houses and damaged one house in Jabal al Mukabbir and At Tur (Jerusalem) due to lack of building permits.

Other property related incidents: • 6 December: The IDF began sealing off windows of Palestinian houses along the new security road built on the eastern side of the Tomb of the Patriarchs to shorten the walk to the settlement of Kiryat Arba (Hebron). • 7 December: The IDF delivered orders of a two-year closure to three Islamic Charitable Societies in Hebron city (Hebron). • 7 December: The IDF delivered orders of a two-year closure to one Islamic Charitable Societies in Jenin city (Jenin) after they confiscated computers and files.

3. Natural Resources:

Land levelling/Requisitions/Tree Uprooting2

Nablus Governorate: 7 December: The IDF issued military order T/208/05 requisitioning 1.6 Dunum of land in village for the construction of an observation tower. Ongoing incidents: - The IDF continues levelling land along side Road No. 505 near Jamma’in village to install a security fence.

Jenin Governorate: No incidents to report.

Tubas Governorate:

1 Not included in the casualty section. 2 4 dunums = 1 acre; 10 dunums = 1 hectare

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13 December: The IDF issued military order T/192/05 requisitioning 20m² (0.2Dunum) in Beit Dajan village for the construction of an observation tower near Khamra settlement.

Tulkarm Governorate: Ongoing incidents: - Land levelling around Avnei Khefets and Enav settlements continues for the construction of a new fence around the settlements.

Qalqiliya Governorate: 7 December: The IDF prevented Palestinians with Israeli IDs from entering Qalqiliya. Ongoing incidents: - The IDF continues levelling land near Immatin village and between ‘Azzun and Kafr Thulth for the construction of the Barrier. - Israeli contractors continue levelling land from Jayyus in the seam zone area to expand Zfim settlement.

Salfit Governorate: 12 December: Israeli settlers from Kfar Tapu’akh cut down a number of olive trees belonging to Palestinians from Yasuf. Ongoing incidents: - Israeli contractors continue levelling land north of city, Iskaka and Deir Istiya villages and south of Marda and villages around Ari’el settlement and near Az Zawiya and Deir Ballut villages for the construction of the Barrier. - The IDF continues levelling land and the installation of a security fence alongside Road No. 505 near Marda, Kifl Haris and Haris villages.

Ramallah / Al Bireh Governorate: 11 December: The IDF issued military order no. T/211/05 requisitioning 1.6 Dunums from Al Mazra'a al Qiblliya lands to build a military base overlooking Talmon settlement. Ongoing incidents: - The Barrier between to south of Al Midya is in the final stages. The construction between , Bil’in and Saffa villages (all west Ramallah) is continuing. Barrier construction also continues between Beituniya and Beit ‘Ur al Fauqa, between At Tira and Beit Duqqu, south of , and north and south of checkpoint. - The IDF is continuing land clearing in Beit Liqya village in order to build a new road between Beit Liqya in Ramallah district and Beit Anan in Jerusalem district. According to the municipality in Beit Liqya, the purpose of this road construction is not clear since there is an old road that only needs some rehabilitation. - The IDF is continuing land clearing in the western side of ‘Abud village and parallel to bypass road 465 for the construction of the “special security arrangement” around Beit Arye and Ofarim settlements.

Hebron Governorate: 10 December: The IDF issued order T/194/05 to confiscate 12m² (0.12 Dunum) of land belonging to Palestinians from Dura to erected video surveillance equipment around the settlement of Negohot. Ongoing incidents: - Land levelling for the construction of a fence around the settlement of Adora continues following confiscation orders issued for the expansion of its security buffer zone. - Work continues on the stretch of the Barrier running from Imneizel to Ar Ramadin.

Bethlehem Governorate: 7 December: The IDF issued military order T/210/05 to confiscate 85 dunum of land at the intersection of Al Khadr with Husan. It is understood that this area will host the future tunnel that will run under Road no. 60 to connect the western villages of the Governorate with , once the Barrier is built. Ongoing incidents: - Land levelling is taking place on the side of the “Tunnels” checkpoint.

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- Land levelling and new housing construction is ongoing in the settlements of Efrat and its two northern outposts (Givat Hatamar and Givat Hadagan), as well as northeast of Neve Daniel, and in Har Gilo and Betar Illit. - Construction of the Barrier is ongoing in the last section around Rachel’s Tomb north of the building hosting the Al .

Jerusalem Governorate: Ongoing incidents: - The construction of the Barrier is ongoing all along the projected route in the Jerusalem governorate; exceptions to this are northeast of Al ‘Eizariyya towards Ma’ale Adumim settlement. - The IDF closed the road from Qalandiya checkpoint towards Atarot Checkpoint; construction is taking place in the area to continue the part of the Barrier near Qalandiya and Al Ram area for the new arrangements at the Qalandiya checkpoint.

Jericho Governorate: No incidents to report.

The Gaza Strip: Ongoing incidents: - Construction continues of a concrete wall north of and . The borders are also being enforced with the placement of new military bases and observation towers. - The IDF informed the Palestinian DCO that the eastern part of Beit Hanoun (about one km along the security fence east of Beit Hanoun) had been declared a closed military zone. - The IDF announced that Palestinians should keep a distance of at least 150 metres away from the perimeter fence in the eastern and northern Gaza Strip.

4. Access for Medical Assistance:

Location / Affected Shooting/Damage Date Denial Delay Governorate Organisation to Ambulance 12 December Shu’fat CP, Jerusalem PRCS 1 0 Beating of staff. Total Week 1 Incident 1 0 Beating of staff.

• 12 December: A PRCS ambulance on route to Jerusalem with a sick person was stopped and denied access at Shu’fat checkpoint (Jerusalem). The staff was ordered out of the ambulance and beaten by the IDF soldiers at the checkpoint when trying to persuade the soldiers to allow them access.

5. Access and Movement for Civilians: a) Curfew • No incidents to report. b) Access to Education : • 8 - 13 December: Due to a closure on Al “Auja village all students were unable to reach their school for two days on 10 and 11 December. Ramallah: • 11 December: The IDF detained a Palestinian female student from Qatanna at a flying checkpoint near Kharbatha al Misbah for at least one hour. The student was delayed for her exam at Beir Zeit University and her ID card was confiscated by the soldiers. Hebron: • Ongoing incidents: - The IDF and Israeli Police escorted Palestinian students from Tuba to their school in At Tuwani, south . The escort has been provided since 2004 to protect the students from attacks carried by Israelis from the Ma’on settlement.

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Jenin: • 10 and 11 December: All PA schools in Jenin city were closed due to the IDF military operation in the city. c) Access to Employment Palestinian workers or traders were allowed access to starting from 13 December after a general closure was imposed on the oPt in the aftermath of the Palestinian suicide bombing in Netanya 5 December. Palestinian workers and traders from Jenin and governorates are still prohibited from entering Israel.

West Bank: Permits issued; December Work Permits Trade permits Governorate to Israel to Israel Nablus 845 605 Jenin 721 36 77 77 Tulkarm 73 450 Qalqiliya 903 370 Salfit 738 200 Ramallah and Al Bireh 639 1,100 Jericho N/A 650 Jerusalem 299 N/A Bethlehem 733 N/A Hebron 1,766 N/A Total Permits Issued West Bank 6,794+ 3,488+

The Gaza Strip: As of 31 November the total number of Gaza Strip workers with valid permits is 5,361. All overnight permissions (about 1,000) were cancelled in the aftermath of the Netanya suicide bombing 5 December. The closure on the Gaza Strip imposed from 6 December was lifted for Palestinian workers and traders to Israel on 12 December.

Date Gaza Workers crossing to Israel Gaza Traders crossing to Israel 7 December 8 December 9 December C L O S E D 10 December 11 December 12 December 5,300 230 13 December 4,723 270

d) Closures/Movement restrictions After the Palestinian suicide attack in Netanya 5 December, the IDF imposed a general closure on the oPt starting from 6 December. This was lifted 13 December with the exception on Palestinians from Jenin and Tulkarm governorates still being prohibited from entering Israel and Jerusalem.

Nablus Governorate: 7 December onwards: The IDF closed Zaatara checkpoint and denied access for Palestinians from the North West Bank heading south. Palestinians heading north are allowed access 7 December onwards: The IDF restricted Palestinian movement on Al Badhan road by two flying Checkpoints. Long queues and delays were reported. 9 December: The IDF closed Huwwara checkpoint twice for one hour, both times after arresting a Palestinian in possession of home made bombs. 10 December onwards: The IDF re-enforced age restrictions for Nablus residents. All aged between 16 to 30 years are not allowed to exit the city. 12 December: The IDF closed a dirt road connecting Sabastiya with Road No. 60 with an earth mound. 13 December: The IDF prevented all Palestinians from Jenin and Tulkarm to leave Nablus through Huwwara checkpoint Ongoing incidents: - Shave Shomeron checkpoint remains closed. - All entrances connecting Sabastiya village with Road No. 60 remain blocked with earth mounds.

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- The dirt road connecting Tulkarm with Road No. 60 near Sabastiya (at the junction with Road No. 57) continues to be blocked with earth mounds.

Jenin Governorate: 10 – 12 December: The IDF announced Jenin city as a closed military area and closed all entrances connecting the city with the district by earth mounds and checkpoints. The IDF closed Dahiyat Sabah al Kheir, ‘Aba entrance, Wadi Birqin, ‘Arab as Suweitat and the road to the garbage dump site with earth mounds. Two checkpoints were established on Haifa road and at the southern entrance of Jenin near (Jannat). On 12 December, the IDF lifted the closure and allowed the Palestinian Authority to remove the earth mounds. Ongoing incidents: - Road No. 585 from Mevo Dotan settlement entrance to Khermesh settlement entrance remains closed with two checkpoints. - The metal gate at a road leading from Ya’bad town and the two checkpoints on Road No. 585 near Mevo Dotan and Khermesh settlements entrances are hindering Palestinian movement. Palestinians are using dirt roads to reach there charcoal factories and olive groves in the area. - The IDF restricted the crossing of commercial trucks transporting goods to Barta’a enclave to 35 trucks a day carrying food products.

Tubas Governorate: Ongoing incidents: - checkpoint remains closed for all Palestinian non-residents of the Valley. Medical personnel and teachers are allowed access. - The IDF closed Bisan checkpoint for Palestinian and Israeli commercial trucks transporting vegetables from Jordan Valley into Israel. The trucks had to go to Al Jalama crossing via Hamra checkpoint.

Tulkarm Governorate: 7 December onwards: The IDF restricted vehicular movement at ‘ gate and prevented Palestinians from other districts to enter Tulkarm. 7 December onwards: The IDF intensified restrictions at Kafriat checkpoint and prevented the vehicular and pedestrian movement in and out of Tulkarm except for Tulkarm residents. 7 December onwards: The IDF established a flying checkpoint near Kafriat tunnel and intensified restrictions by preventing vehicular and pedestrian movement in and out of Tulkarm except for Tulkarm residents. 7 December onwards: The IDF announced Tulkarm district as a closed military area and restricted the movement of Palestinians in and out of the district. 12 December: The IDF, after being stones by Palestinians, forced the shops owners to close their shops on both sides of the main road in ‘Anabta. Ongoing incidents: - The IDF continues to prevent Palestinians with Israeli IDs from entering Palestinian controlled areas unless they have relatives living in Tulkarm. - The IDF continues to close the roads between Deir al Ghusun and , Bal’a and Tulkarm by earth mounds. - The IDF continues to prevent access to the garbage dump sites in al Jarushiya and Deir al Ghusun with earth mounds. - The IDF continues to close the road between Bal’a and Al ‘Attara with an earth mound.

Qalqiliya Governorate: 12 December: The IDF opened the north Qalqiliya crossing and allowed Palestinians with valid permits to enter Israel.

Salfit Governorates: 7 – 8 December: The IDF closed Kafr Ad Dik gate for two days. 7 December onwards: The IDF intensified the checking at Deir Ballut checkpoint and delays were experienced during the week. Ongoing incidents: - The western entrance of Deir Istiya remains closed with an earth mound.

Ramallah / Al Bireh Governorate:

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8 December onwards: At around 4:00pm, the IDF closed Qalandiya checkpoint for all vehicular and pedestrian movements following the killing of one IDF soldier at the checkpoint by a Palestinian. The checkpoint re-opened on 11 December only for Jerusalem ID card holders and internationals. Palestinians with West Bank IDs are not allowed access through Qalandiya and will have to travel to Jerusalem/Jericho and Abu Dis via Atara partial checkpoint and then on bypass road 60. The checkpoint will reportedly remain closed for Palestinians until the new terminal is opened on Sunday 18 December. 11 December: The IDF closed the gate at An partial checkpoint between 9:00am and 12:00am; Palestinians had to take the alternative road via ‘Abud to move out of the Bani Zeid cluster.

Hebron and Bethlehem Governorates: No movement restrictions are active on bypass roads in Bethlehem district (367, 375 and 60). Restrictions on Road No. 60 still apply to any movement below the city of Hebron: traffic is discouraged by the presence of the IDF on the road and the closure of all turn-offs, except settlements.

Hebron Ongoing incidents: - The IDF continues to close Zif gate from Road No. 317. - The IDF continues to close Yatta gate with earth mounds off Road No. 60. - No access is possible along the original road to the village of Imneizil as construction for the Barrier in the area is being completed. - The IDF continues to patrol the H1 area of Hebron city and to perform random checks on Palestinians in violation of the Hebron Protocol.

Bethlehem 8 December: Traffic along Wadi Nar road stopped following the closure of the “Container” checkpoint preventing northbound movement. 9 December: UN local staff were denied access at Jerusalem checkpoints following new checkpoint entry requirements (i.e. provision of list of critical staff approved by Bet El) introduced by the IDF during the week. The requirements were dropped on 12 December allowing UN local staff with permits to access Jerusalem. Ongoing incidents: - The road from Al Jab’a to Surif remains closed with road blocks.

Jerusalem Governorate: 8 December: At around 9:00pm, the IDF closed Container checkpoint and prohibited all movements through. The checkpoint was re-opened on 9 December at around 6pm. 8 December onwards: Qalandiya checkpoint was closed after an IDF soldier was stabbed to death. The checkpoint will reportedly remain closed for Palestinians until the new terminal is opened on Sunday 18 December. Travel from the West Bank for permit and Jerusalem ID holders to Jerusalem is through and Ar Ram or the pedestrian gate in Abu Dis. 12 December onwards: The pedestrian gate in Abu Dis was closed.

Jericho Governorate: 8 December onwards: The IDF imposed a tight closure on Al ‘Auja. According to the IDF stones had been thrown at a military vehicle during a patrol in the village. The closure is still ongoing, and village residents are not allowed to move in/out of the village. 9-13 December: The IDF stopped all cars going in/out of Jericho via the DCO checkpoint for IDs inspections and searches. Long delays were reported during the day. 9-13 December: Long delays were reported at Yitav Checkpoint during the day due to the IDF car searches and IDs inspections. Ongoing incidents: - The IDF continues to prohibit all Palestinians from going to the Jordan valley unless they have a Jordan Valley addresses on their ID cards or in possession of an Israeli permit to allow them to be present in the Jordan valley areas. Palestinians, even with Israeli permits are not allowed to stay over night in the area, and if they are caught by the IDF patrols, then their IDs are confiscated and they will have to go collect them at the Palestinian DCL in Jericho.

Reported flying checkpoints – West Bank:

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Total # of flying Governorate Location, # of flying checkpoints in brackets checkpoints At Al Badhan Road (14). Road No. 60 near; Yits’har junction Nablus 28 (7). Near; (7). Jenin No flying checkpoints observed. 0 Tubas Entrance off; Tammun, Tubas city, ‘Aqqaba. 3 Junctions off; Ar Ras (3), Al Jarushiya (3), Bal’a (5), (3), Tulkarm 30 Ramin (2). Near; Kafriat tunnel (7), ‘Anabta gate (7). Entrance off; Qalqiliya city – DCO (4), Hajja (3), Jit junction (4), Qalqiliya ‘Azzun, Jayyus. Between; ‘Azzun and Jayyus, Jit and al 15 Funduq. Entrance off: Salfit city, Kafr ad Dik, Marda, Deir Istiya (2), Az Salfit 6 Zawiya. On Road 60 near; Sha’ar Binyamin. Entrance off; ‘Abud, Ramallah and Al Bireh 3 Kharbatha al Misbah. Jerusalem Atarot junction (7). 7 Jericho No flying checkpoints observed. 0 Bethlehem Al Ubeidiya (1), Bethlehem (1), Dar Salah (1), Wadi Nar road 5 (1), Al Khadr (1). Hebron Wadi Sa’ir (1), Beit Ummar (2), Sa’ir (1), Kharsa (1), (2), 17 Hebron (5), Nabi Younis (2), Adh Dhahiriya (1), Dura road (1). Total West Bank 114

6. Additional Protection Issues: • During the reporting period 37 home made rockets were fired by Palestinian militants from the Gaza Strip towards targets in Israel. IDF fired about 138 artillery shells into open areas northeast of Beth Hanoun and other targets in the Gaza Strip. • 7 December onwards: The Palestinian Authority arrested 21 Islamic Jihad activists in the North West Bank (11 from Jenin, seven from Tulkarm and five from Salfit). On 5 and 6 December a total of 69 Islamic Jihad activists were arrested in the West Bank by PA police forces. • 7 December: Settlers from Beit Hadassah attacked Palestinians in Hebron-H2 (Hebron). • 7 December: PA security forces discovered a tunnel opposite Al Shouka area east of Rafah (Gaza Strip). The police dismantled the tunnel. • 10 December: The IDF uncovered a deep tunnel running under the Erez crossing north of the Gaza Strip. • 12 December: ICRC resumed the family visits to the prisoners in Israeli Jails. • 13 December: An IAF aircraft fired a missile at training camp in the former Neveh Dekalim settlement. No injuries were reported.

Searches/Arrests/Detentions Total # of Location of arrests/detention, number of Total # of Governorate Arrested/ searches noted at locations with brackets Searches Detained CP, Huwwara CP, Zaatara CP, Nablus Nablus 4 24 city (3), Balata camp (1). (1), Kafr Dan (1), Jenin city (1), Jenin Flying CP near; , Kafr Ra’I, Haifa Road. 3 13 Salem CP. Tubas city (1), Tammun (1), Kafr ad Dik (1), Tubas 3 1 Flying CP Tammun. camp (1), Deir al Ghusun (1), Tulkarm 6 16 ‘Anabta (2), ‘Illar (1), Ar Ras (1), ‘Anabta gate. Qalqiliya Jayyus (1). 1 1 Salfit Az Zawiya (1), Salfit town (1). 2 7 Ramallah/Al Kafr Ni’ma (1), Beit Liqya (1), ‘Ein Arik (1). 3 27 Bireh Jerusalem Old City (1), At Tur (1). 2 4 Jericho No reported incidents. 0 0 Bethlehem Al Fureidis (1), Al Khadr (1), Bethlehem (1), 4 4 Tuqu (1). Hebron Adh Dhahiriya (2), Yatta (1), Hebron (5), 15 20 Hebron Old City (3), Bani Na’im (1), Sa’ir (1), Ash Shuyukh (1), Karma (1). Total Week West Bank 43 117 Gaza Strip near . 0 3 Total Week oPt 43 120

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Appendix: Checkpoints 7 – 13 December 2005

Checkpoint Status

Tulkarm: Open from 5:30am to 5:00pm for UN and international organisations and Palestinians with permits. Since 16 November Palestinian workers and traders with valid permits were again allowed access to Israel. On 5 December closed for all Palestinians Efrayim The checkpoint is constructed as a crossing point into Israel for Palestinian workers and traders and others from Tulkarm Governorate with a special permit. On 29 June the checkpoint became operational from 4:00am – 7:00pm and Palestinian workers and traders are instructed to cross through. On 5 December closed for all Palestinians Kafriat The checkpoint is manned and physically divided into three parts: one that controls movement to and from Tulkarm town; one that controls movement to Israel proper; and one that controls movement to and from Jubara. On 24 August the Tunnel near the checkpoint under Road No. 57 was opened reducing the need to use the checkpoint. ‘Anabta This gate was reestablished on 14 July 2005. On 5 December closed for all Palestinians Qalqiliya: Qalqiliya DCO Unmanned but with frequent flying checkpoints. Jaljoulia Access through this checkpoint is only granted for holders of permits into Israel and residents of Ras Tira, Ad Dab’a, Wadi Ar Rasha, Ramadin and Arab Abu Farda. Ambulances from Qalqiliya town to these five villages need prior coordination with DCL. Only vehicles leaving the West Bank are subjects for security checks. On 12 December opened for all Palestinians with valid permits. Qalqiliya North (new) The IDF opened a new crossing point on 28 November north of Qalqiliya Barrier gate to Palestinian permit holders such as workers, traders and humanitarian cases. The crossing is open from 4:00am to 7:00pm. On 12 December opened for all Palestinians with valid permits. Salfit: Deir Ballut Officially open between 6am and 6pm The checkpoint controls movement between Ramallah and the villages in the western part of Salfit District. Delays were experienced this week. Kafr Qasem Open 24 hours for UN and international organisations and (Road 5) Palestinians with permits. On 12 December opened for all Palestinians with valid permits. Nablus: Huwwara Open for humanitarian organisations and Palestinians. Israeli citizens, Southern main entrance Palestinian holders of Jerusalem IDs and holders of international passports are subject to prior liaison with the IDF before access can be granted. Movement is allowed from 4:30am to 8pm. On 10 December age restrictions (16 -30) were imposed and delays and long queues were experienced. Beit Iba Open for humanitarian organisations and Palestinians. Israeli citizens, Western entrance, mainly Palestinian holders of Jerusalem IDs and holders of international for trade passports are subject to prior liaison with IDF before access can be granted. Movement is allowed from 6am to 8pm. On 10 December age restrictions (16 -30) were imposed and delays and long queues were experienced. Sarra Closed except to villagers from Sarra or , who occasionally are let South western entrance, through. before the closure regime main road to Qalqiliya Qusin Closed by a gate and an earth mound since mid-March 2004; traffic Internal closure between diverted through Beit Iba checkpoint. Sarra and Nablus Al Tur Only open for Samaritans. The gate is occasionally open for vehicles. Southern checkpoint connecting the Samaritan district of Jarzim with Nablus City Open for villagers from Beit Furik, Beit Dajan, and open between 6am Eastern gate and and 6pm. On 10 December age restrictions (16 -30) were imposed.

OCHA Weekly Briefing Notes 7 – 13 December 2005 | 10 checkpoint. After the closure regime main gateway between Nablus and the Jordan Valley Shave Shomeron Since 15 August the checkpoint is closed for Palestinians. Only (Sabastiya) humanitarian vehicles are allowed access. Northwest, main road to Jenin Maale Efrayim Closed for Palestinians unless they have a Jordan Valley address on Southeast connecting their ID cards or in possession of an Israeli permit to allow them to be Jericho and Nablus present in the Jordan Valley areas. Hamra Closed for Palestinians unless they have a Jordan Valley address on East, before closure regime their ID cards or in possession of an Israeli permit to allow them to be main road to Jordan, Tubas, present in the Jordan Valley areas. Jenin Zaatara (Tappouah) Vehicular movement for residents of northern west bank (Jenin, Tubas, South, main road to Nablus, Tulkarm and Qalqiliya) is prohibited unless they have a special Ramallah permit. Jenin: Al Jalama Main entrance to Open between 7:00am to 4:00pm Sunday to Friday On 5 December Israel closed for all Palestinians. Imreiha (Reikhan) Open between 7:00am to 9:00pm. Main gate to the Barta’a ash- Sharqiya/ Umm ar Rihan enclave Tubas: Bisan Open 24 hours for permit holders. Since 16 November closed for Main entrance to Israel Israeli and Palestinian commercial trucks. On 5 December closed for all Palestinians. Tayasir Gate Closed for Palestinians unless they have a Jordan Valley address on Gate to the Tubas eastern their ID cards or in possession of an Israeli permit to allow them to be agricultural lands in the Jordan present in the Jordan Valley areas. Valley Ramallah/Al Bireh: Qalandiya Totally closed between 8-11 December. From 12 December opened for internationals and Jerusalem ID holders. Bet El/DCO Open daily from 6:00am to 10:00pm. Access in vehicles only for diplomats, foreign passport holders, UN staff, international humanitarian organisations, and Palestinians with special work permits. Atara Bridge (partial) Open. An Nabi Salih gate (partial) Open until the 2 December, but in operation during morning rush hours on the 3 and 4 December. At Tayba (partial) Open. Makkabim Usually open for Israelis, Jerusalem ID holders and foreign passport On Road No. 443 holders. Road No. 443 is off limits to oPt Palestinians, except those with permits to enter Israel/Jerusalem. Ni’lin Usually open for Jerusalem ID holders, foreign passport holders and Palestinians with permits to enter Israel. Rantis Usually open for Jerusalem ID holders, foreign passport holders and Palestinians with permits to enter Israel. Jerusalem: Hizma Open for Israelis, Palestinians with Jerusalem ID cards, West Bank Eastern entrance of junction and Gaza Strip Palestinians with permits and internationals. Road No. 437/Psigat Ze’ev settlement Az Za’ayyem Open for Israelis, Palestinians with Jerusalem ID cards, West Bank North eastern entrance on and Gaza Strip Palestinians with permits and internationals. Road No. 1 Ar Ram Open for Israelis, Palestinians with Jerusalem ID cards, West Bank Northern entrance on Road and Gaza Strip Palestinians with permits and internationals. UN staff No. 60 north. requested on several occasions to show personal ID/national passports in addition to their UN ID card. Bir Nabala/Atarot Open for Israelis, Palestinians with Jerusalem ID cards, West Bank Northern entrance on Road and Gaza Strip Palestinians with permits and internationals. UN staff No. 404 /Road No. 45 requested on several occasions to show personal ID/national passports in addition to their UN ID card. Ramot Alon Open for Israelis, Palestinians with Jerusalem ID cards, West Bank

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North western entrance on and Gaza Strip Palestinians with permits and internationals. UN staff Road NO. 436 requested on several occasions to show personal ID/national passports in addition to their UN ID card. Shu’fat Refugee Camp/ Open 24 hours for Palestinians with Jerusalem IDs and UN and Anata Checkpoint international organisations; Palestinians from the West Bank need a permit. West Bank vehicles are not allowed. Container (“Wadi nar”) Open for Palestinian vehicles with permits (taxis and municipality East of Abu Dis, main transit trucks), humanitarian reasons and for internationals. Permits not between north and south West required for Palestinian pedestrians. Israeli- yellow plate cars are not Bank allowed to cross. Jericho: DCO Open daily 24 hours, after the IDF handed security control of Jericho Main checkpoint off Road 1 to the Palestinian Authority on 16 March 2005. Open for everyone but Israelis. Vehicles with West Bank registrations can pass without permits. Al Auja (Yitav) Open 24 hours for Palestinian living in Jericho District. Prohibited for On Road 90 Palestinians holding West Bank ID cards from other governorates unless they hold Israeli permits to allow them access to the area. Gate opposite Allenby Gate manned by the IDF. Closed at all times. Soldiers open the gate Checkpoint off Road No. 90 for shuttle busses taking Palestinians to Allenby Border Crossing to Jordan. Bethlehem : Rachel’s crossing New terminal-like crossing. Open 24 hours for humanitarian North entrance to Bethlehem organisations, diplomats, Jerusalem ID holders and Palestinians with valid permits. A security incident took place on 10 December when a Palestinian was found with explosive devices attached to his body on the Bethlehem side of the checkpoint. Ein Yalow Open 24 hours and only for Israeli-plated cars and international Bypass road east of Walaja, organisations. No movement of Palestinians beyond it unless with a on Green Line permit. Beit Jala DCO Not manned. Movement allowed in both directions for all kind of Entrance to Beit Jala vehicles including private cars. Open from 7am to 10pm. Tunnels Open 24 hours for humanitarian organisations. UNRWA staff denied Road 60 at Har Gilo access on 6 December (not reported previously). Land levelling is taking place to expand the site of the checkpoint. Settlers’ Checkpoint - Efrata Open 24 hours. Checkpoint manned by settlers with movement Southern entrance to beyond it restricted for Palestinians. settlement Gush Etzion Open 24 hours. IDF soldiers are checking vehicles in both directions On Road 60, at Etzion turn but are not always manning the checkpoint. Private Palestinian cars allowed passing. Wadi Fukin Open 24 hours. No crossings of Palestinians and goods allowed into Crossing to Israel on Road Israel following the Netanya bombing on 5 December 2005. Crossing 375, Green Line of workers re-started on 13 December. Al Jab’a Open 24 hours. No crossings of Palestinians and goods allowed into Crossing to Israel on Road Israel following the Netanya bombing on 5 December 2005. Crossing 367, Green Line of workers re-started on 13 December. Ein Gedi On bypass Road 90. Used to be located close to the Avnot On Road 90, along Dead Sea. settlement but has now been moved south to the intersection with the settlement of Mitzpe Shalem. On the 24 of September, external closure was imposed on the Palestinian territory, Palestinians with valid permits are not allowed to pass

Hebron Beit Awwa Crossing along Road 354 only for humanitarian organisations and At entrance to Negohot critical service providers: no other movement allowed. settlement, on Road 354 Tarqumiya No crossings of Palestinians and goods allowed into Israel following Entrance for commercial the Netanya bombing on 5 December 2005. ICRC detainees’ family goods (back-to-back), west of visits restarted on 12 December while crossing of workers on 13 Hebron on Road 35 for both December. Hebron and Bethlehem districts Meitar No crossings of Palestinians and goods allowed into Israel following On Road 60, Green Line after the Netanya bombing on 5 December 2005. Crossing of workers re- intersection with Tene started on 13 December. settlement road. Shani Manned by the IDF. A military base has been established nearby. At turn for Shani settlement on Road 317.

OCHA Weekly Briefing Notes 7 – 13 December 2005 | 12

Beit Yatir Manned by the IDF. Open 24 hours. Residents of Imneizil village are On Road 316, at the turn for allowed to cross but other Palestinians are asked for permits. the settlement of Beit Yatir Prayers Road, H2 Closed to Palestinians. Access to area of Ibrahimi Mosque Shohada street, H2 Open to Palestinians living beyond it and in the Tel Rumeida area in Western entrance to Shohada accordance with a list held by the IDF at the checkpoint. Access street possible only on foot. The metal detector near the checkpoint is used to check all Palestinians including schoolchildren on their way to the Al Ibrahimmiyye school. Ibrahimi Mosque, H2 Worshippers and visitors searched upon entry. Access to the Mosque Bab Al Baladiyye , H2 The checkpoint is closed to Palestinians heading in the direction of Next to settlement of Beit Shohada Street and a new gate has been installed across the road Romano blocking physical access towards it. Qarantina, H2 Closed to Palestinians Junction with Shohada Street Bab Al-Khan, H2 Closed to Palestinians heading in the direction of Shohada Street and Entrance to Avraham Avinu north toward the market. settlement Tel Rumeida, H2 Open only to Palestinians travelling on foot living between it and the Beginning of street leading to settlement. settlement Al Kasaba, H2 Permanent checkpoint which filters Palestinian movement from the Exit from the Kasaba, old city Kasaba area directed to the Tomb of the Patriarchs. Movement is (Tomb of the Patriarchs) segregated for incoming and outgoing movement. Palestinians exiting the Kasaba are processed through a combination of turnstiles, allowing one person at a time to pass, and a metal detector. The process is slow and extremely problematic during Friday prayers. Ar Ramadin New permanent checkpoint established in September 2005, manned At the entrance to Ar Ramadin by IDF soldiers who check and search Palestinian civilians travelling village from Road 325 to and from a cluster of Palestinian villages (4,000 people) around Ar Ramadin area. The checkpoint also restricts the movement of Palestinians and Arab Israelis on road 325.

"Nabi Younis" New permanent checkpoint established in October 2005, partially Halhul - Sa’ir Junction on road manned by IDF soldiers; new cameras have been installed on the 60 military observation tower. Al Fawwar New checkpoint established in October 2005, partially manned by Al Fawwar-Dura junction on IDF soldiers. Palestinian taxis, buses and private vehicles are road 60 allowed to cross the junction between Dura and Al Fawwar. Gaza Crossings/Checkpoints Erez crossing 7 – 11 December: Closed for Palestinians, open for internationals. 12 December: Re-opened for Palestinian workers and traders. Rafah Passenger Terminal Rafah Crossing Terminal was partially open all the week. For the time being, it works for four hours per day, from 11:00am to 4:00pm. - 6 December: 375 arrivals, 425 departures. - 7 December: 502 arrivals, 493 departures. - 8 December: 404 arrivals, 560 departures. - 9 December: 500 arrivals, 525 departures. - 10 December: 523 arrivals, 434 departures. - 11 December: 505 arrivals, 602 departures. - 12 December: 500 arrivals, 524 departures.

Commercial checkpoints: Tulkarm/Qalqiliya

Taybeh The back-to-back system has been operational from 5.30am to 5:00pm except on Saturday.

Nablus checkpoint Open from 6:00am to 5:00pm, Sunday to Thursday, Friday from Main commercial checkpoint in 6:00am to 2:00pm and closed on Saturday. Nablus since July 2003. Jenin

OCHA Weekly Briefing Notes 7 – 13 December 2005 | 13

Al Jalama Open between 7:00am to 4:00pm, Sunday to Friday On 5 December Northern entrance/ main closed for all Palestinians commercial check point. Ramallah/Al Bireh

Beituniya Officially open 7:00am to 5:00pm Sunday to Thursday, 7:00am to Back-to-back checkpoint 1:00pm on Fridays and closed Saturdays. Open for commercial goods and a back-to-back system is in operation. Only Palestinians from Kafr ‘Aqab and Sameeramees holding Jerusalem IDs and driving Israeli yellow-plated trucks are allowed to pass through this checkpoint without using the back-to-back system. This checkpoint is not open for private cars or pedestrians. ICRC and UN vehicles are permitted to cross. Jericho Back-to-back checkpoint/DCO Open. checkpoint

Gaza Strip

Sufa Partially open for construction materials only. Karni Karni was partially open.

– End –

Method and Sources The information used to compile these Briefing Notes comes from a range of sources with a field presence in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The accuracy of the reported information is ensured through the corroboration of reports by two additional sources. Typically, the OCHA Field Coordination Unit (FCU) receives an initial incident report from a source, which is verified through visits to the incident site in addition to further corroboration with a third source, such as an NGO. In addition, OCHA FCU collects military orders as documentary evidence and provides information on incidents witnessed in person.

In the interests of timeliness and readability, the sources are not listed for each incident within the texts of the report. Listed below are the sources relied upon each week in compiling this Briefing: - Physical protection: OCHA FCU, Red Crescent Society (PRCS), United Nations Relief Works Agency (UNRWA), World Health Organization (WHO), Israel Defence Forces (IDF) website, Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), offices of Palestinian Authority (PA) governors, Palestinian District Civilian Liaison (DCL). - Shelter and property: OCHA FCU, UNRWA, Palestinian DCL. - Natural Resources: OCHA FCU, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, UNRWA, Palestinian DCL, Village Councils, Land Defence Committee and Land Research Centre. - Access for Medical Assistance: OCHA FCU, WHO, PRCS, Palestinian Ministry of Health (MoH), UN World Food Programme, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), UNRWA. - Access and Movement for Civilians: Sources: Palestinian DCL, Christian Peacemakers Team (CPT). - Curfews: OCHA FCU, Village Councils, UNRWA, Palestinian DCL. - Access to Education: OCHA FCU, UNRWA, UNICEF, Palestinian DCL, Village Councils. - Access to Employment: UNRWA, United Nations Office of the Special Coordinator for the Middle East (UNSCO), Palestinian Ministry of Labour (MoL), Palestinian DCL, Palestinian Chamber of Commerce, Israeli DCL. - Closures/Movement Restrictions: OCHA FCU, UNRWA. - Additional Protection issues: OCHA FCU, UNRWA, United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), UNSCO, Palestinian DCLs, Palestinian Governors’ offices, Al Mezan Center for Human Rights, IDF.